oversimplify

verb

over·​sim·​pli·​fy ˌō-vər-ˈsim-plə-ˌfī How to pronounce oversimplify (audio)
oversimplified; oversimplifying; oversimplifies

transitive verb

: to simplify to such an extent as to bring about distortion, misunderstanding, or error

intransitive verb

: to engage in undue or extreme simplification
oversimplification noun

Examples of oversimplify in a Sentence

The article oversimplifies the problem. She tends to oversimplify things. We must resist the temptation to oversimplify.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some health advocates argue that the notifications have oversimplified a complex issue. Liz Szabo, NBC News, 12 Oct. 2024 But the United States also at times overreacted and oversimplified, seeing every leftist and national liberation movement as an enemy to be defeated. Michael McFaul, Foreign Affairs, 10 Aug. 2020 But the authors might be oversimplifying the matter here. Reece Rogers, WIRED, 24 Sep. 2024 Criminal defense lawyers also have oversimplified how doctors diagnose abusive head trauma, child abuse pediatricians say, noting many factors are considered to determine it. Dakin Andone, CNN, 21 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for oversimplify 

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of oversimplify was in 1897

Dictionary Entries Near oversimplify

Cite this Entry

“Oversimplify.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/oversimplify. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

oversimplify

verb
over·​sim·​pli·​fy ˌō-vər-ˈsim-plə-ˌfī How to pronounce oversimplify (audio)
: to simplify something so much that the result is confusing, misleading, or wrong
oversimplification noun

More from Merriam-Webster on oversimplify

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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